Probate Insights
Expert guidance on probate law, property sales, executor responsibilities, and estate planning — specific to San Francisco and Marin County.
California sets attorney and executor fees by statute — a percentage of the gross estate value. For a $2M San Francisco home, that's over $40,000 in fees for each party. Here's exactly how the math works and what you can do about it.
San Francisco's iconic Victorian and Edwardian homes present unique challenges in probate — from deferred maintenance and permit issues to landmark designations and buyer financing complications. Here's how to navigate them.
Executors carry personal liability for mistakes made during estate administration. These are the seven errors that most commonly result in court sanctions, beneficiary lawsuits, and personal financial exposure.
Marin County probate follows California law but has its own court procedures, timelines, and local nuances. Here's everything executors need to know about filing at the Marin County Superior Court in San Rafael.
Not every estate goes through probate. If the decedent had a living trust, the process is fundamentally different — faster, more private, and less expensive. Here's how to tell which process applies and what to expect.
The Independent Administration of Estates Act can save executors months of court delays and thousands in fees. Here's exactly what IAEA authority covers, how to get it, and what happens if you don't.
California law requires estate property to sell for at least 90% of the probate referee's appraised value. Here's exactly how the rule works, when court confirmation is required, and how overbidding affects your sale.
San Francisco probate typically takes 9 to 18 months — but the real timeline depends on court scheduling, estate complexity, and whether you have IAEA authority. Here's what to expect at every stage.
Every estate is different. A free, no-obligation consultation with a Certified Probate & Trust Specialist can help you understand your specific situation and next steps.